LOCAL

Melting Snow Ice Leave Potholes in Citys Streets
City Reorganizes Public Works
PoHi Band Nearing Goal For Inaugural
Major Rehired as PTC Superintendent
County Commission Seeks Way To Aid P.C. in Entryway Cleanup
Kaw City Chamber Names Guest Speaker
’53 Po-Hi Drum Major Advises Big Blue To ‘Keep Eyes Open’

Melting Snow Ice Leave Potholes in Citys Streets

By JEFF POLITTE

News Staff Writer

According to Street Department personnel, the recent bout of holiday storms has taken its toll on more than just the department’s annual budget over the last several weeks.

In fact, as milder temperatures help dissipate the last vestiges of these storms, city crews are discovering the winter of 2000 still isn’t finished with its seasonal giving … and taking.

Officials estimate anywhere from 500 to 1,000 potholes, cracks and areas of broken concrete are now in need of repair across Ponca City’s 170 miles of streets as a result of the nearly back-to-back December storms.

“These were the worst winter storms we’ve seen in about 10 or 15 years,” said Charles Kelley, Street Department superintendent. “Luckily we had plenty of materials on hand to handle the situation.”

“In this part of the country it’s hard to predict these types of winters,” Kelley continued. “You go along for a while with mild winters, then you’ll have a winter like this one which heavily impacts your budget.”

Kelley said the storm damage done to city streets would keep crews busy for the next six month. This damage includes asphalt cracking, potholes, broken concrete and suspended street sweeping operations until next week.

Kelley also said city crews started making repairs on these damaged areas last Friday. “These are temporary repairs until the roads dry and we can go back and make permanent repairs in the next couple of months,” he said.

Rather than hot asphalt, which is only effective when the weather is dry and above 40 degrees, crews are opting to use a composite-based product called “Unique Paving Material” to complete the temporary repairs because of the product’s versatility. This versatility includes the ability to bond and compress even during inclement weather.

How does ice and snow cause so much damage to city streets? Kelley explains: “The thawing of the ice allows the water to get down into cracks in the pavement, then the re-freezing expands and causes pressures until you get pavement failures.”

In addition to pavement failures, Kelley noted the holiday storms heavily impacted the department’s yearly budget, as well. “We had $6,000 budgeted for materials for snow and ice removal for the year and 400 overtime hours,” he said. In December, alone, the Street Department was forced to exceed that budget allotment by $1,500 and virtually exhaust its yearly overtime hours.

On the materials side of the coin, according to Homer Duke, assistant Street Department superintendent, to date, the department has used 20.3 tons of salt and 472 tons of sand to help clear city streets of ice and snow in the wake of this winter’s storms.

However, Kelley pointed out the city still has plenty of materials left on hand for future storms. “We planned ahead and prepared for this type of weather,” he said. “I had a sneaking suspicion that the weather was going to be bad this winter because we were well overdue, so we stocked up on our supplies.”

City Reorganizes Public Works

By JEFF POLITTE

News Staff Writer

In the wake of Ken Parr’s resignation, the Public Work’s Department has been re-organized into two different city departments, according to city officials.

City Manager Gary Martin made the announcement during a city commission meeting earlier this week.

The two departments have been separated into Environmental Services, headed by Chad Morris, and Public Works, headed by interim director Randy Lauritsen.

Officials say the re-organization is due, in part, to new EPA regulations making the department “too complicated” to exist as a single entity. The last time Public Works existed as more than one department was back in 1994.

“I think we will have a smoother operation and much more attention given to the details and the costs associated with operations,” said Martin. “The operation of these two departments (as separate entities) should help us to accomplish our goal No. 8, which is to provide a service delivery system deemed to be excellent by our customers.”

One of the reasons Public Works could finally be divided into two departments is because this is the first time the city has had more than one engineer on its staff, indicated Martin. “I’m particularly pleased, when considering times when we had no engineers on staff, that we now have three engineers on staff who are working in specialized fields,” he said. This made the department more versatile.

One of the issues surround the re-organization was new EPA regulations concerning storm water run-off.

Martin explained: “Storm water run-off regulations before only dealt with cities with populations of 100,000 or more. Now the regulations affect all cities” no matter their size.

Martin noted this will put more of a load on the Public Works department as it stood before, making it too complicated for one department head to handle. The new EPA regulations will also amount to “another unfunded mandate that will impact the community,” he added.

Environmental Services will include water production and distribution, waste water collection, the new Waste Water Treatment Plant, solid waste and the city’s landfill.

The restructured Public Works Department will handle engineering, traffic engineering, streets, the city garage and Lew Wentz Golf Course.

According to Martin, city officials should be naming a permanent public works director soon. “We should start the interview process next week for the director position,” he said, adding he hoped to be able to make a recommendation to the city commission by Feb. 1.

PoHi Band Nearing Goal For Inaugural

The Ponca City High School Marching Band is getting closer to reaching its goal of $84,000 to attend the 2001 inaugural parade for President George W. Bush.

Mark Caspersen, band director, said with the activities planned this week and weekend the goal should be met.

“We’re making deposits today, and we’re confident that we’ll make it,” he said.

Caspersen also wanted to thank the town. “This community has been overwhelmingly generous. Thank you so much.”

More Fund-Raising Activities

Kids Kastle will donate all proceeds to the band on Friday night from 6-11 p.m. Parents may drop off their children and do not have to stay. Cost is $8 per child. Drinks will be provided for the children.

Monday Skate World will donate all proceeds from the 5-7 p.m. session to the band. Admission is $3 and this includes skates. There will be a live remote from one of the radio stations.

The Class of 1970 has donated $250 to the Ponca City High School Marching Band in their quest for the 2001 inaugural parade in Washington, D.C.

The Class of 1944 also answered the Class Challenge, contributing $250 to the band’s trip fund.

Major Rehired as PTC Superintendent

By KRISTI HAYES

News Education Editor

He’s staying put. Pioneer Technology Center Superintendent Dr. Doug Major will stick around for at least another year.

In a unanimous 5-0 vote, members of the Pioneer Technology Center Board of Education voted to rehire Major for another year. His contract will run from July 1, 2001 to June 30, 2002.

The board renewed the contract under the existing conditions.

Major was happy with the board’s vote. “I’m very excited the board voted to keep me here. I love Ponca City. This is a great community,” he said.

Board members were also happy to keep Major here another year. Board president Larry Buck said, “I am pleased the board renewed Dr. Major’s contract for an additional year. “I’m excited about the future.”

Major said he sees change in Pioneer Tech’s future. “I see change, but I think it’ll be growth change. I’ve received input for program changes. We have many community members who have contributed to deciding what future the programs need to take at PTC,” he said.

On the list of future programs, PTC will offer two more this fall. One will be an information technology program, which includes computer repair networking. “This will involve several areas of certification,” Major said.

The second program to debut this fall will be industrial technology with a mechanical technology option. Major said the program has been developed with area businesses (Conoco, Ditch Witch, etc.). “Students who finish their degree with PTC and then attend Northern Oklahoma College are eligible for an associates degree,” Major said.

Major also noted the hiring of two positions at Tuesday’s meeting. “The board hired Darrin Killough as a curriculum specialist. He will work with teachers on curriculum and assist with teaching methods,” he said.

The second position was a part-time practical nursing instructor. Pamela Wilson was hired to fill the position.

County Commission Seeks Way To Aid P.C. in Entryway Cleanup

By KATHY ZEHR

News Staff Writer

The Kay County Commissioners Courtroom contained standing room only Monday, as a large delegation from Ponca City appealed to Kay County Commissioners to help enforce cleanup of land outside the entryways to Ponca City.

“Appearance portrays an attitude,” said Stan Kistler, Ponca City Parks and Recreation board member. “Driving on any highway into Ponca City, especially from U.S. 60 is very discouraging, and does not speak well of Ponca City’s progressive attitude and potential,” he said.

He and others talked about trying to attract high-tech business to the city in order to provide high-paying jobs for young adults, who are going elsewhere for opportunity. He and Jon Kennedy told commissioners in an earlier meeting that potential business prospects had indicated the city did not portray an interest in progress as they drove into the city. One prospective businessman and his family admitted traveling toward the city on U.S. 60 from Interstate 35. He turned north on Waverly, turned east on Grand at the PC Middle School and drove on toward the downtown area. Somewhere along the way they turned around and left.

All members of the delegation admitted that the largest problem and first area they would like to see improved appears along a section of U.S. 60 in an area referred to as the Souligny Addition. Primary concern were old cars and other unusable junk stacked along fence lines.

Ponca City Code Enforcement Officer Chris Henderson explained the BOCA Code and the International Code, which gives the state fire marshal power to act outside corporate limits and ask the county sheriff’s office to assist in enforcement of property cleanup from owners. Several other codes and laws were discussed as well. Asst. District Attorney Philip Ross said some enforcement codes could get complicated and expensive requiring countywide elections, extra legislative bodies and more manpower.

Attorney Fred Boettcher advised city and county officials “it is best to abate nuisances economically and under a simple plan.” He suggested the city and county unite and adopt a three-mile limit property clean up code. Boettcher and the commissioners agreed that it would be difficult to enforce codes for any thing other than trash and should not attempt any action on farm equipment and buildings.

Mayor Tom Leonard said he would like to first talk with property owners and see if the trash cleanup could be resolved amicably. City Manager Gary Martin also addressed the problem and talked about increased efforts to clean up eyesores inside the city limits of Ponca City. Commissioner Dick Stone also spoke briefly, saying the people of Ponca City supported the clean-up effort.

Commissioner Wayne Leven said he felt the four major cities in Kay County would also be interested in any decisions about county property clean up at their entryways. He asked Ponca City representatives to give commissioners time to study the situation and return for further action in 60 days.

Other Items

Other large items on the commissioner’s agenda included bid openings for the construction of a railway spur on county property at the carbon fiber plant project and purchase of a dozer for District 1. Three bids were received for the railway, but winning bidder will not be announced until Jan. 22, pending further study of the bids. Shultz Equipment was awarded the bid for the new dozer at $128,000.

The commissioners adjourned and reconvened as trustees of the Kay County Public Buildings Authority. First item of business included electing Rex Purdy as vice-chairman. Discussion and information were exchanged regarding funds for the new Kay County Health Department building to be built on North Fairview Avenue in Ponca City. Involved in the discussions were Alan Lock and Mike O’Connor with the Kay County Health Department, Wally Shafer and Tom Smith representing Eastman National Bank and Dave Cummings, attorney for the authority. Assistant District Attorney Ross was also present.

Several proposals from area banks were studied by commissioners and County Clerk Pam Goodno. They indicated more information would be needed from some banks and set a deadline for resubmission of all proposals or corrected proposals for 9 a.m. Jan. 16. Tom Smith reminded the commissioners and clerk that a loan would be in the non-qualifying loan category because of its tax exemption status and that fact would probably affect the interest rate. Goodno said loan proposals would not be binding until all contracts were signed.

O’Connor said bid packets would be available this month by the architects and would be opened in about 60 days. He also told commissioners that $300,000 is now available for beginning construction and another $100,000 will be received from the State Health Department this year.

He also reported that the old Kay County Health Department building would be used until the new $1.5 million building is completed. The old building will be for sale following appraisal and some bidders have already indicated interest, said O’Connor.

Kaw City Chamber Names Guest Speaker

KAW CITY — Dr. Guy Logdson, an internationally recognized authority on western and cowboy music, poetry and musicians, will be the featured speaker at the Kaw City Chamber of Commerce Banquet. The banquet is set for 7 p.m., Jan. 22 in the Kaw City Community Center.

A native Oklahoman, Dr. Logdson has authored books and over 100 articles about Oklahoma, the west and cowboys. His most recent co-authored book is Oklahoma: Queen City of the Chickasaw Nation. He has compiled and co-compiled and annotated eight compact discs for Smithsonian Folkways Records and four for Bear Family Records in Germany. He has been a senior I or Postdoctoral Fellow at the Smithsonian Institution and is a Smithsonian Associate Research Fellow.

In 1993 Logdson was honored with the Special Recognition Award during the Annual Governor’s Arts Awards. Other awards include the American Cowboy Culture Award, the Will Rogers Memorial Lifetime Achievement Award and the All-Around Cowboy Culture Award.

Logsdon served as director of libraries and professor of education and American folklife at the University of Tulsa before coming a free lance writer/scholar and entertainer. He has made featured appearances at the Smithsonian’s Annual Festival of American. Folklife, the National Museum of American Art, the annual Cowboy Poetry Gathering and Cowboy Music Gathering, the National Cowboy Hall of Fame and the Autry Western Heritage Museum.

Tickets for this annual Kaw City Chamber banquet are $12.50 which includes the catered dinner. The tickets may be purchased from any Kaw City Chamber board member which includes Clayton Austin , Bob Collyar, Al Collins, Jack Kelsey, Jeanne Pappan and Amy Rowe. For information contact the Kaw City Chamber of Commerce (580) 269-2276.

’53 Po-Hi Drum Major Advises Big Blue To ‘Keep Eyes Open’

By KRISTI HAYES

News Education Editor

“Keep your eyes open,” was the advice from John Hinkle, a 1953 Ponca City High School graduate, to members of The Big Blue Band in their quest for the inaugural parade in Washington, D.C.

Hinkle was the drum major for The Big Blue Marching Band in 1953 when the group attended the inaugural parade for President Eisenhower. He was also fortunate enough to attend another parade with the Air Force Academy for the inauguration of President Kennedy.

The 66-year-old band enthusiast says the trip will be an experience of a lifetime. “As you march down Pennsylvania Avenue, put a VCR tape in your brain and record the whole thing in your mind forever. You will want to play it over and over again,” he stressed to band members.

Hinkle said one thing about the trip that he remembers (beside the parade) was the train ride. “The trip was just amazing. I got to see the countryside. When we rode by farms in Pennsylvania I thought how beautiful they were and understood why people drew pictures of them,” he said.

Hinkle and the other members of the band also visited the sites of D.C. “We went to a theater and I got to see a comedian during an intermission. I also rode a trolley and talked to everybody with my ‘hick accent.’”

One of the highlights of the trip, according to Hinkle, was rounding the street to Pennsylvania Avenue. “Marching down the street is almost like you’re in the spotlight. It’s like a movie. I can replay everything about it. I can still see Eisenhower’s overcoat and ‘bald head,’” he said. “I saluted him and he saluted me back.”

Unfortunately, Hinkle said that by the time the Oklahoma band was set to play, it was getting dark outside. “You couldn’t see much except for the flashing lights.”

Hinkle said he doesn’t believe the 2.2-mile walk down the street will be a problem. “I think Mr. Caspersen [the band director] will have them ready. There’s a real sense of trust between the students and the director.”

Hinkle also said he was lucky in high school to have so much respect between the administrators and students.

“There was major support from the athletic groups and other organizations to the band. I credit some of that to former principal Homer Anderson. He brought us all together,” he said.

He also noted that even now when he meets people someone will remember him as the drum major for the group.

“It’s always nice to be remembered that way.

The Big Blue Band has already tested their endurance. Hinkle said he saw them outside Tuesday practicing. “When they strike up ‘Oklahoma’ at the parade there won’t be any doubt who they are,” he said.

Living outside Oklahoma City, Hinkle said he still has time for music and he plays in an Irish band called O’Kellys Celtic Band. Hinkle also has a love for puppets and storytelling and does various shows in Ponca City.

In town for the day, Hinkle said he has been busy contacting his former classmates. “I’ve been calling them to see if they would donate. Some can and some cannot. I would urge everyone to donate it they can,” he said.

DEATHS

Chloe Dyan Wilson
Betty Jo DeMoss Smith
Alice R. Shelton
Mary Edna Baldwin
Lewis Leonard Corporon
Charles Wayne Moses
Nina Blanche Burgert

Chloe Dyan Wilson

MABANK, Texas — Chloe Dyan Wilson, infant daughter of Clayton Cole and Alicia Wilson of Gun Barrel City, Texas, died Jan. 8, 2001.

A graveside service will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, Jan. 12, 2001, in the Oaklawn Cemetery with the Rev. Byron Jones officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of Eubank Funeral Home in Mabank, Texas.

Survivors include her parents; grandparents, Dick and Cheryl Wilson of Ponca City, Ray and Connie Orren of Oklahoma City and Gail and David McCuiston of Oklahoma City; great-grandparents, Lilian Schaeffer of Ponca City, Frances Orren of Oklahoma City and Mildred Deering of Oklahoma City; and several aunts, uncles and other relatives.

Betty Jo DeMoss Smith

Betty Jo DeMoss Smith, longtime Ponca City resident, died Monday, Jan. 8, 2001, at the St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. She was 72.

A memorial service will be held Thursday, Jan. 11, 2001, at 3 p.m. in the chapel of the Trout Funeral Home with the Rev. Ron Ledbetter, pastor of Sunset Baptist Church, officiating.

Betty Jo DeMoss Smith was born Feb. 14, 1928, at Stroud, the daughter of Elmer C. and Lenora M. Woods DeMoss. She attended schools in Ponca City and graduated Arkansas City High School in 1946.

On Apr. 28, 1947, she married Robert E. Smith. He preceded her in death on June 8, 1994.

She was a member of the Sunset Baptist Church, the Sonshine Sunday School Class, and the Eastern Star. She enjoyed crocheting and making holiday crafts as gifts to friends. She took great pride in her children.

She is survived by three sons, Terry Don Smith of Tampa, Fla., Alan Eugene Smith of Fort Lauderdale, Fla., and James Byron Smith of Ponca City; two sisters, Anna Lee Williams of Blackwell and Charlene Frost of Ponca City; two brothers, Bayless DeMoss and Roy Dean DeMoss, both of Ponca City; and five grandchildren.

In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents; a son, Darrell Wayne Smith; and a sister, Marcille Richardson.

Memorials may be made to Sunset Baptist Church, 915 Greenwood Ave., Ponca City, Okla. 74601.

There will be no viewing at the funeral home. The family will be at the home, 1413 McGraw.

Obituaries

Alice R. Shelton

Alice R. Shelton, Ponca City resident, died Monday, Jan. 8, 2001, at her home. She was 74.

The funeral will be held at 1 p.m., Thursday, Jan. 11, 2001, at the Trout Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Paul Graham, pastor of Second Baptist Church, officiating. Burial will follow at Resthaven Memorial Park Cemetery.

Alice was born on April 9, 1926, east of Marlow to John A. and Emma Lee (Woods) Harper. She married R.C. “Slim” Shelton on Oct. 9, 1943, in Duncan. The couple moved to Ponca City in 1958, and Alice went to work at Tanco Wreaths and later for Kresses Dry Goods for several years. She also worked for Rocket Freight Line. She retired in the mid-1970s and became a full time homemaker. She enjoyed traveling and being with her family. She also enjoyed fishing, painting and playing games.

She is survived by her husband, R.C. “Slim” of the home; two sons, Robert C. Shelton Jr. and his wife Anita of Ponca City and Calvin L. Shelton and his wife Florence of Garden Grove, Calif.; two daughters, Peggy L. Butler and her husband Jim of Jacksonville, N.C., and Betty J. LaRue and her husband Brad of Ponca City; two brothers, Curtis Harper and his wife Karma, and William “Bill” Harper and his wife Maxine of Comanche; eight grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, two brothers, Clifford and John H. Harper, and one sister, Pauline Harvill.

The family will be at 2013 N. Osage.

paid obituary

Services Pending

Mary Edna Baldwin

Mary Edna Baldwin, former Ponca City resident, died Tuesday afternoon, Jan. 9, 2001, in the Cole Nursing Home of Guthrie. Services are pending with Grace Memorial Chapel.

Funerals

Thursday

Lewis Leonard Corporon

Lewis Leonard Corporon — Funeral at 10 a.m. in the Central Christian Church, Enid, with burial in Memorial Park Cemetery. Arrangements are under the direction of Ladusau-Evans Funeral Home.

Charles Wayne Moses

Charles Wayne Moses — Graveside service at 10 a.m. at the Blackwell Cemetery under the direction of Roberts and Son Funeral Home of Blackwell.

Nina Blanche Burgert

Nina Blanche Burgert — Memorial service at 2 p.m. at the home of her sister, Ernestine Becke, 1109 Princeton. Arrangements are under direction of Trout Funeral Home.

NEWS BRIEFS

Homeless Homer Redemption — The Ponca City Humane Society has been notified by Heinz Pet Products that they will be phasing out their sponsorship of the Homeless Homer pet symbol redemption program effective Jan. 31. To redeem these symbols, they must be turned it to the Humane Society by Jan. 24. The symbols will then be sent to Heinz so that the organization can receive cash value to take care of homeless cats and dogs at the shelter. The shelter urges everyone to collect as many symbols as possible and turn into the shelter before Jan. 24. For more details, call 767-8877.

Bicycle repairs at Parkside Bicycles. 765-3230. adv.

Ponca Gourd Dance Society Meeting — All members of the Ponca Gourd Dance Society are asked to attend an important meeting to be held at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 11 at the Ponca Tribal Cultural Center. Agenda will include selection of head staff, program details, and assignments for the society’s upcoming annual dance to be held on Saturday, March 24. Refreshments will be served.

Jim Bowen Construction­ Custom homes, room additions and remodeling. Call 762-3077. adv.

Women’s Aglow — Come be a part of Women's Aglow, a network of caring women from all church denominations. Their mission is to lead women to Jesus Christ and provide opportunity for Christian women to grow in their faith and minister to others. All women are invited to hear special guest speaker Pat Sullivan from Spoken Word Ministries on Saturday, Jan. 13, from 9:30 a.m. to noon, at High Impact, 309 South Magnolia in Newkirk.

Court Allen Construction. Brick, flagstone, concrete, walkway’s, patios and planters. Call 765-2720. adv.

Cherokee Meeting — The Western Cherokee Nation of Arkansas and Missouri will hold a monthly meeting Saturday at 10 a.m. in the Pawhuska High School Lecture Hall.

Head Country, One half bar-b-que chicken with choice of vegetables, $4.25, Thursday, 11 am until gone. 1217 East Prospect. 767-

8304. adv.

Kids Klub — Victory Mountain Kids Klub will meet from 10:30 to noon on the second and fourth Saturday of each month to learn and understand the Bible. It will include songs, Bible stories and puppet shows for children six to 12 years. Located at 815 South Ninth Street, it is a ministry of the Mission. For further information, contact Anna at 765-0605.

Windshield Chips repaired professionally. Guaranteed and insurance approved. Ponca Glass, 300 W. Highland and Pine. 762-6522. adv.

Accident — A hit-and-run accident in the 1500 block of Riggs Drive was reported to Ponca City police at 7:37 a.m. Tuesday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

Floorcraft pre-inventory reduction sale continues. Includes all in-stock carpet, vinyl. 5th and Hartford. adv.

Accident — A two-vehicle accident three miles north of Newkirk on U.S. 77 was reported to Ponca City police at 11:34 a.m. Tuesday. The call was transferred to the Oklahoma Highway Patrol.

Accident — An accident at the intersection of North Fourteenth Street and Bradley Avenue was reported to Ponca City police at 11:52 a.m. Tuesday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

After Christmas Sale! 40% off entire stock. Mel’s Clothing and Shoes, 2008 North 14th. adv.

Accident — A two-vehicle, non-injury accident in the 900 block of South Sixth Street was reported to Ponca City police at 12:41 p.m. Tuesday. The officer reported there was only minor damage and no report was taken.

New Ownership-Dave’s Tire and Auto is under new ownership. We offer Goodyear and other brands of tires, along with friendly and complete auto care.

adv.

Theft — A woman at The Country Club, 1101 North Pecan Road, reported a stolen coat to Ponca City police at 1:51 p.m. Tuesday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

Don Sawyer “The Chimney Sweep”. In business for 26 years, no mess. 762-8883. adv.

Theft — A Ponca City police officer at the Salvation Army, 600 South Third Street, advised the Communications Center at 2:26 p.m. Tuesday a report was being taken on some items which were stolen from the center.

Sale, Maytag scratch-n-dent refrigerators, electric dryers, ranges. Copeland’s, 315 E. Grand, 762-6896. adv.

Molestation — A woman in the 600 block of South Fourteenth Street advised Ponca City police at 5:27 p.m. Tuesday her 4-year-old daughter had told her daycare worker a man had hurt her. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

Free Pregnancy test. Birth Choice cares. Confidential. Hours: Monday 1-3 p.m., Tuesday, 6-8 p.m., Wednesday, 1-3 p.m. and Thursday, 6-8 p.m. 700 West Broadway. 765-9689. adv.

Accident — A three-vehicle, non-injury accident at the intersection of North Fourteenth Street and East Hartford Avenue was reported to Ponca City police at 5:42 p.m. Tuesday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

Drinking Water R/O 25 cents/gallon. Distilled, 50 cents/gallon. Processed fresh daily. Pure Water Wagon. 1717 North Fifth, Ponca City. adv.

Burglary — A woman in the 1400 block of Shirlee Avenue reported her home had been burglarized to Ponca City police at 5:52 p.m. Tuesday. An officer was assigned and a report was taken.

Intoxicated Subject — An employee at El Chico Mexican Restaurant, 900 East Prospect Avenue, reported to Ponca City police at 9:58 p.m. Tuesday two very intoxicated men had entered the business and were being very loud and belligerent. Two officers responded to the scene and a 36-year-old man and a 35-year-old man were taken into custody for public intoxication.

Subject Held — A Ponca City booking officer reported a 23-year-old woman was being transported in from the Kay County Sheriff’s Department on a city warrant for failure to pay at 5:33 a.m. Wednesday.

LIFESTYLES

Noon Lions Group Among Several Donating to Band
Keri Lynn Ramsey Becomes Bride of Justin Lynn Pappan
Wedding Plans Announced
Eta Delta Chapter Members Meet
Dr. Breece Eberley Joins SJRMC
Newborn’s Eye Health a Priority for Parents

Noon Lions Group Among Several Donating to Band

When the Noon Lions met Jan. 3., Ponca City Mayor Tom Leonard told about the “State of the City” in regard to a five-year plan. Mayor Leonard stated, “We should never settle for what we have already achieved.” He gave special recognition and commendation to former commissioners, Hubert Watts and Bill McCann, and former mayors, Ernie Trout and Marilyn Andrews. Leonard also said, “change is coming and that all things in city government and services are connected.”

Some of the issues addressed by the mayor included electric deregulation; economic development; and telecommunications for the city, with Congressman Ernest Istook and US. Senator Don Nickles, helping with a federal grant for $4.7 million has been awarded for installation of a fiber-optic pipeline.

Leonard spoke of other improvements to city infrastructure including the Waverly street project which will include four-laning Waverly from Grand to South Avenue, airport runway improvements being funded 95 percent with a federal grant, and the Fifth Street extension to Knight Avenue.

Year-end membership reports for the Noon Lions showed 108 members with 11 life members. The general membership voted to give $200 toward the Po-Hi band trip, and Homer Nicholsen challenged members to “pass the hat” and additional funds were collected for a total of over $800.

Bob McCartney gave the invocation, and Russ Allen was song leader. Guests were Debbie Fralix and Craige Baird. Greeters were Larry Stover and Pat Scott. The Ponca City Noon Lions Club meets at the American Legion every Wednesday.

They are the largest service organization worldwide and in Ponca City. Their goal is to assist in “wiping out” all preventable blindness worldwide and to provide eye exams and eyeglasses to needy in the local community. Their motto is ‘We Serve.”

Keri Lynn Ramsey Becomes Bride of Justin Lynn Pappan

Keri Lynn Ramsey and Justin Lynn Pappan were united in marriage in a recent ceremony at First Assembly of God Church in Ponca City. The 2 p.m. ceremony was officiated by Pastor Mark Shorey.

The bride is the daughter of Bill and Cheryl Ramsey, and the granddaughter of Bill and Shirley Ramsey and Glendora Decker of Ponca City. The bridegroom is the son of Mike Pappan of Newkirk and Connie Pappan of Blackwell.

Mary Dyer, pianist, played a variety of musical selections preceding the wedding march.

The bride was attired in a designer gown. The halter back was adorned with daisy chain appliqués and pearls with re-embroidered lace and sequins that also detailed the bodice of the empire waist and full skirt. The upper back was accented with satin streamers, fabric roses and sequins. A semi-cathedral train was complemented by a rose shaped bow. The bride’s headpiece was a tiara of pearls and rhinestones. She carried a bouquet of red roses, baby’s breath, ivy, and satin streamers.

The Maid of Honor was Keli Ramsey, sister of the bride. She wore a designer black gown accented with rhinestones across the bodice, and carried a long stemmed red rose.

The bridegroom wore a black tuxedo jacket, red vest, black trousers, red bowtie, and red rose boutonniere. Shawn Keller served as the Best Man.

The reception was hosted at the church by the bride’s parents. Assisting with the event were Carmen Crisp, cousin of the bride, and Kimber Harryman.

The newlywed couple resides in Ponca City. Currently, the bride is working at Commercial Federal Bank and the bridegroom at Sykes.

Wedding Plans Announced

An open invitation is extended to friends and family to attend the 2 p.m., Feb. 17, wedding of Kaleen Renee Horne and Levi Ernest Mills in Christ’s Church in Newkirk. The couple’s approaching marriage has been announced by her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Alton Horne of Ponca City. Mills is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Noel Mills of Newkirk.

The bride-elect has attended Ponca City High School and is working toward a CDA at Pioneer Technology Center. The prospective bridegroom has attended Newkirk High School and is a manager at Take Ten.

Eta Delta Chapter Members Meet

Twelve members of Eta Delta Chapter, Beta Sigma Phi sorority, met Jan. 8 in the home of Betty Wyatt. Judy Branch conducted the meeting.

Members voted to support the International Endowment Fund as presented, and a thank you letter was read from The Mission, the December service recipient. Golden Villa is the January chapter service project.

The monthly social will be a pizza party at Mazzio’s on Jan. 19. Sylvia Smith won the door prize, and Judy Branch received the Beta Bud Basket.

Cecelia Schieber presented an informative program on in importance of folic acid which has been found to prevent birth defects.

Wanda Sheehan will host the Jan. 22 meeting.

Dr. Breece Eberley Joins SJRMC

St. Joseph Regional Medical Center President and CEO Bob Edwards has announced that Breece Eberley, M.D. will join SJRMC's medical staff as an internist in August.

Dr. Eberley is currently an internal medicine resident at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center. He has a bachelor of science degree in zoology from OU and graduated from the University of Oklahoma College of Medicine in 1998.

He and his wife, Susan, have three children: Aaron, 8; Megan, 3; and Ryan, 10 months. Dr. Eberley’s grandparents reside in Ponca City.

Newborn’s Eye Health a Priority for Parents

As the parent of a newborn, there are many things to learn and give attention to concerning your baby’s well being. But as you schedule well-baby appointments and study proper infant nutrition, don’t overlook your baby’s eye health. From birth to age five is a crucial time for a child’s visual development and eye health.

At birth, newborns have the eye structures needed to see, but these structures are not fully developed. Just as your child will learn to speak and walk, a baby has to learn to see. To ensure that no hindrances are present for your child’s eyes to develop, your baby’s eyes should be examined for signs of rare congenital eye problems at birth.

Light and dark are the first visual patterns your baby will be able to see. Over the first four months of life, your baby should begin to follow moving objects with the eyes and reach for things. To help your newborn’s vision develop, use a nightlight or other dim lamp in your baby’s room; change the crib’s position frequently and your child’s position in it; keep reach-and-touch toys within your baby’s focus, about 8-12 inches; and hang a mobile above and outside the crib.

“It is believed that by four months of age, an infant’s color vision is similar to an adult’s,” said Troy Smith, O.D. and president of the Oklahoma Association of Optometric Physicians. “From four to six months of age, eye movement and eye-body coordination skills should develop further and both eyes should focus equally.”

During the first six months of your child’s life, your baby’s eyes may appear crossed or unaligned at times. Though this is usually normal, take care to watch for persistent misalignment. This may mean your child has a condition such as strabismus or amblyopia (lazy eye). By recognizing this early, and immediately scheduling an appointment with an optometrist, the conditions are much easier to treat.

A child does not need to be able to read, or even talk to receive an eye examination. If you notice your newborn or toddler exhibiting any of the following signs of vision problems, the Oklahoma Association of Optometric Physicians encourage you to make an appointment with an optometrist for your child.

red, itchy or watering eyes

sensitivity to light

an eye that consistently turns

squinting, rubbing the eyes

excessive blinking

irritability or short attention

span

holding an image too close

grimacing while performing

a visual task

At about six months of age, you should take your baby to your doctor of optometry for his or her first thorough eye examination.

“An optometrist will test a newborn. for things like excessive or unequal amounts of nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism and eye movement ability as well as eye health problems,” said Dr. Smith. “Vision development and eye health problems can be more easily corrected if diagnosis and treatment start early.”

Doctors of Optometry, who provide the greatest percentage of total eye care in Oklahoma, are primary healthcare providers who diagnose, manage and treat conditions, injuries and diseases of the human eye and visual system. To learn. more about eye health, contact the Oklahoma Association of Optometric Physicians at (405) 524-1075.

SPORTS

Wildcat Matmen Pound East Central in District
OSU’s White Will Turn Pro
Sluggish Sooners Spank Aggies, Look to Jayhawks
Bucs Beat Tigers at Foul Line
Lady Tigers Top Tonkawa in Transition
Eagle Viewing Set At Kaw Lake Area
Casting Contest Due
Trout Fishing Just Right in the Cold
Proposed Changes To Increase Harvest

Wildcat Matmen Pound East Central in District

By FRED HILTON

News Sports Editor

TULSA — Tulsa East Central won the final three matches, two by falls, but the Cardinals needed that to make the score even slightly respectable, as Ponca City’s Wildcat wrestlers won the crucial district dual, 44-27, Tuesday night.

That was the first district match for the Cats who are now in the driver’s seat in their bid for a berth in the Dual State Tournament. Ponca City must still get past district foes Jenks and Stillwater.

The Cats take on Jenks, in a dual that was postponed by the weather before Christmas, later this month while the Wildcats and Pioneers collide next Thursday. Both duals are at home for the Poncans.

“I was very pleased with the way our kids wrestled,” coach Todd Steidley said. “We had six first- or second-year wrestlers in our lineup tonight.

“We gave up some bonus points but we wrestled hard in when we lost.”

The Wildcats won bonus points of their own with five falls and won nine of the 14 matches in the half full East Central gymnasium.

“We came into this dual thinking we would win,” Steidley said.

But even he was surprised by the score.

The Wildcats won the first three matches of the night, including a fall by 119-pounder Shawn Lee for a 13-0 lead.

That gave Steidley the option of forfeiting at 125 pounds where MiMi Miller was set to meet defending state champion John Lawley. Miller defeated Lawley in overtime to win the 125-pound title in the Jenks Tournament over the weekend.

Moving Miller to 130 preserved his seeding over Lawley. It also allowed Miller to win an 11-3 major decision over East Central’s Michael Jefferson, to push the Poncans’ lead to 11-3.

Steven Windler won 8-2 at 135 before East Central’s DeArmor, a Jenks Tournament champion, won a fall at 145.

But the Wildcats then reeled off four straight falls, by Matt Littleton, Roman RedLeaf, Jasper Lockett and Jason Leavitt, to take an insurmountable 44-12 lead.

The Wildcats continue their busy schedule with a dual at Bartlesville Thursday and enter the Sand Springs Tournament Friday and Saturday.

How the Wildcats line up for that tournament could determine their success for the rest of the season. Steidley has been trying to get most of his grapplers down a weight. They must be certified at that weight Jan. 15 to go at that weight in the regional and state tournaments.

Results

Ponca City 44, East Central 27

103 — (PC) d. Fairchild, 11-6

112 — Womble (PC) md. Eshs, 15-5

119 — Lee (PC) p. Willford, :50

125 — Lawley (EC) by default

130 — Miller (PC) md Jefferson, 11-3

135 — Windler (PC) d. Wilcox, 8-2

140 — DeArmor (EC) p. Brooke, 1:20

145 — Littleton (PC) p. Rogers, 1:10

152 — RedLeaf (PC) p. Revard, 5:47

160 — Lockett (PC) p, Johnson, 2:39

171 — Leavitt (PC) p. Worthington, 5:00

189 — Steele (EC) p. Childers, 5:28

215 — Ketcher (EC) p. Arbvertha, 5:38

Hwt — Ketcher (EC) d. Frezer, 7-5

OSU’s White Will Turn Pro

STILLWATER (AP) — Oklahoma State’s Reggie White, who ran for 1,049 yards as a junior, said he will forgo his senior year to enter the NFL draft.

White averaged 5 yards per carry and his total was fourth in the Big 12.

“This has been a very difficult decision,” he said Tuesday. “I feel, however, this is a tremendous opportunity and one that is in the best interest of me and my family.”

The 5-foot-11, 225-pound White, from Liberty, Texas, saw limited playing time as a redshirt freshman in 1998 and shared time at tailback in 1999. In 2000, he topped 100 yards six times, including a career-best 187 in the opener against Tulsa.

New Oklahoma State coach Les Miles said he respected White’s decision.

“I’ve known Reggie and his family since he first came to Oklahoma State, and I know this is a decision they have reached with a lot of thought,” Miles said.

Sluggish Sooners Spank Aggies, Look to Jayhawks

NORMAN (AP) — Oklahoma coach Kelvin Sampson called it a “treadmill approach” against Texas A&M.

“I thought we were working hard, but I’m not sure how much we were getting done at times,” Sampson said after a 78-65 victory Tuesday night.

The 22nd-ranked Sooners, playing in front of a lifeless crowd and in advance of a big game Saturday with No. 5 Kansas, never seemed to be in any danger of losing but never seemed totally in control, either.

The Aggies trailed by just seven at halftime, even with leading scorer Bernard King not taking a shot, and they had a chance to get within four with nine minutes remaining.

But Oklahoma (12-2, 1-1 Big 12) made enough plays to keep the Aggies at bay.

“I thought it was a good home win. Obviously, we’d like to have played better,” Sampson said. “We’ve got to play a lot better Saturday, obviously.”

The Sooners, after falling behind early, used a handful of short runs to take control. Aaron McGhee scored 24 points and Hollis Price had 17 for Oklahoma, which was coming off a 20-point loss at Iowa State.

“I don’t think we were looking ahead,” said McGhee, who was 10-of-12 from the foul line. “We just came out, and we weren’t focusing as hard as we should have. The second half we picked it up a little bit. We can play a lot better.”

Texas A&M (6-8, 0-2) shot 47.7 percent from the field, a big improvement from its 28 percent effort in a loss to Kansas State over the weekend. But the Aggies had 21 turnovers compared with just nine assists.

“You want to put yourself in a chance, especially on the road, to win the ball game,” coach Melvin Watkins said. “We had our chances. It was a situation where we didn’t hit the free throws a couple times.

“We came up a little short, but our effort was surely there. Let’s build on that.”

Oklahoma made six of its seven 3-pointers in the second half, including one by McGhee and one by Kelley Newton during an 11-2 run that gave the Sooners a 51-38 lead with 15 minutes to play.

King, who came in averaging 18 points, made three 3-pointers in a three-minute span to help pull the Aggies to within 60-54 with 9:42 remaining. Texas A&M had a chance to cut it to 60-56, but Keith Bean missed two free throws, then Tim Heskett and McGhee hit 3-pointers to push Oklahoma’s lead to 12 with 8:25 to play.

The Aggies got no closer than seven after that.

“That’s why they call them free,” Watkins said. “You’ve got to take advantage of those in the closing moments.”

King finished with 17 to lead the Aggies, who dropped to 1-14 all time against Oklahoma.

Texas A&M took advantage of sloppy play by Oklahoma to take an 18-10 lead nine minutes into the first half.

The Sooners played with more intensity the rest of the way and did a better job protecting the ball. After committing seven turnovers in the first 10 minutes, they had eight the rest of the game.

“We don’t have any delusions of grandeur,” Sampson said. “We’re a good team. We didn’t play as well as we’re capable of playing tonight, but I thought our kids gave great effort.”

No. 22 OKLAHOMA 78, TEXAS A&M 65

TEXAS A&M (6-8)

Bean 1-3 0-2 2, Brown 2-7 3-4 7, Anderson 5-6 1-2 11, Leatherman 2-4 4-5 8, B.King 5-9 4-7 17, J.King 1-3 2-2 4, Gilchrist 1-7 2-2 4, Leal 0-0 0-0 0, Brookhart 0-0 0-0 0, Jack 1-1 2-2 4, Butterfras 3-4 2-2 8. Totals 21-44 20-28 65.

OKLAHOMA (12-2)

McGhee 6-16 10-12 24, Selvy 1-5 8-10 10, Johnson 0-0 0-0 0, Price 7-13 2-5 17, Raymond 2-6 0-0 5, Griffin 1-3 1-2 3, Heskett 1-2 4-4 7, Newton 3-5 0-0 8, Heywood 2-3 0-0 4. Totals 23-53 25-33 78.

Halftime—Oklahoma 38, Texas A&M 31. 3-Point goals—Texas A&M 3-6 (B.King 3-5, Gilchrist 0-1). Oklahoma 7-16 (McGhee 2-3, Newton 2-3, Heskett 1-1, Price 1-4, Raymond 1-5). Fouled out—Jack. Rebounds—Texas A&M 29 (B.King 5), Oklahoma 32 (Selvy 8). Assists—Texas A&M 9 (B.King 4), Oklahoma 15 (Price 5). Total fouls—Texas A&M 25, Oklahoma 22. A—9,764.

Bucs Beat Tigers at Foul Line

TONKAWA — Tonkawa coach Larry Case said free throws made the difference in the game as the Buccaneers defeated the Newkirk Tigers 53-38 in a game that was never decided until late in the fourth quarter.

The Buccaneers made 17 of 22 free throws overall and 12 of 15 in the fourth quarter.

“We attacked them and got into a bonus situation,” Case said. “The seniors have really stepped up late in the last two games with the free throws and that has made the difference.

“I’m really proud of the kids.”

It looked like the Bucs would have an easy time after taking an 18-7 lead into the second quarter.

Newkirk came back in the second quarter and pulled to within two. The first half ended with the score, 22-20.

However, that’s as close as the game ever got. In the third quarter, it seemed that the Tigers couldn’t stand prosperity. Every time Newkirk closed the gap, the Buccaneers pulled away. At the end of the third quarter, the score was 33-27.

Again in the fourth, the Tigers pulled to within two points. With 3:24 remaining in the game, the score was 40-38.

Then came the fouls.

Tonkawa Freshman Brian Bowling was fouled in the act of shooting a 3-point shot. He converted all three free throws to make the score, 43-38.

At the 2:48 mark, Buccaneer senior Justin Geiser drove the base line for a layup. He made the shot, but there was another Newkirk foul, which gave him an opportunity for a three point play.

It was a costly mistake for Newkirk sophomore Braden Smith. It was his fifth personal and he had to leave the game. As he went to the bench, he took a good part of Newkirk’s inside defense and rebounding ability with him.

But, the foul was costly for Newkirk because Geiser made the free throw to give Tonkawa a 48-38 lead.

With the clock decidedly with the Buccaneers, the Tigers committed three consecutive turnovers to seal their fate.

Troy Pankratz scored 16 points to lead both teams in scoring.

“Pankratz is a real handful,” Case said.

Stephen Miller was the leading scorer for the Bucs with 11 points. Justin Geiser and Tyler Reese each scored 10. Travis Reese pitched in six points. Brian Bowling and Nathan Geiser each scored five and Brody Lucas contributed with four points.

For the Tigers, Nathan Honick, Drew Beard and Braden Smith each scored six points and Jerrod Bowen pitched in four.

Lady Tigers Top Tonkawa in Transition

TONKAWA — Newkirk’s Ashley Leaming slashed through the Tonkawa defense as she drove the lane and jump-stepped her way to 27 points to lead the Lady Tigers to a 56-36 win over the Lady Bucs.

Leaming, a 5-foot-6-inch senior, was the difference as she broke a close defensive game wide open in the second quarter with 12 points. Most of her baskets resulted from the rebounding effort of freshman Karlie Howerton, who initiated the Lady Tigers’ fast transition game.

Newkirk coach Dwight Winburn said he thought his team played well on defense and in transition.

“I was pleased with the our transition game,” he said. “And I thought we played well on defense.”

He should have been pleased.

The first quarter ended with Newkirk leading, 10-4.

Tonkawa took shots. But, it was a night when the ball seemed to roll around the rim of the basket, then fell away like a roulette ball. Most of the time, the ball landed on Howerton’s number, 33-blue.

The Lady Bucs put up a good defensive effort. Newkirk struggled the first six minutes of the second period to increase the lead to 16-6. Tonkawa’s sophomore Jillian McIntyre and junior Hauli Warrior did an excellent job of clogging up the middle and keeping Newkirk out of the paint, except for a short time late in the second quarter when Newkirk went on a 10-2 run. The first half ended with Newkirk leading 26-8.

Newkirk won the second half 30-28.

Howerton was the next leading scorer for the Lady Tigers with nine points. Hollie Greer and Kaycee Brandon each had six. Natascha Short put in four points while Amy Harris and Lindsay Ross each scored two points.

Tonkawa’s McIntyre scored most of her nine points in the third quarter by making five of six free throws and Warrior put in six of her eight points. Junior guard Lacey Clabaugh contributed with two points in the third, but hit two consecutive 3-pointers in the fourth to account for her eight points on the night. Keyonna Hornbuckle made five points. Crystal Martin,Tiffany Hoover and Briana Biaggi each scored two points for Tonkawa.

Outdoors

Eagle Viewing Set At Kaw Lake Area

The annual Kaw Lake Eagle Viewing will be held Jan. 20, starting at 9::30 a.m.

This event, held for the past 12 years, give eagle watchers an opportunity to view the American national symbol both in flight and nesting. Several informational evens are also slated.

On the first will be a up close and personal look at a bald eagle provided by the Sutton Avian Research Center at Bartlesville, which will show a live bald eagle, ”Bensar,” at the Kaw City Community Center.

The Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation will present an educational program on eagles at 10:30 in the community center..

The Oklahoma Municipal Power Authority will play host to part of the day’s activities, including serving refreshment at the power plant. Ponca City’s Utility Authority will give an electrical safety demonstration using the “Hazard Hamlet: display at the Kaw Hydroelectric Plant.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service will have a display at the plant and will conduct a slide presentation on Oklahoma’s Endangered and Threatened Species at 11:30 a.m.

The U.S. Corps of Engineers, with help from the Stillwater Audubon Society members, will conduct tours of eagles nesting sites at Kaw lake and on the Arkansas River below the dam.

Casting Contest Due

The Ponca City Bassmasters will host a Kids’ Casting contest at WalMart Saturday from 1 until 4 p.m. in the sporting goods department.

The contest is broken into two age groups, ages 7-10 and 11-14.

The youngsters will be judged on their ability to flip, pitch and cast at three distances.

The local winner is eligible to advance to the state contest in February.

Trout Fishing Just Right in the Cold

The small bobber twitched, then slowly disappeared in the clear, blue water. The excited angler paused, then swept his spinning rod upward. After a brief tussle, he held a colorful rainbow trout in his hand.

With winter's cold setting its sights directly on the Sooner State, most anglers have traded their fishing rods for VCR remotes. But unlike many warm-water species, trout favor cold water and will actively attack an angler's bait this time of year. And with six wintertime and two year-round state-designated trout areas, there are good trout fishing opportunities within an easy drive of most anglers.

"The newest trout area is Pawhuska Lake, located in Osage County," said Barry Bolton, assistant chief of fisheries in charge of management for the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation. "Pawhuska is a clear-water lake with good bank fishing access. This area should be especially attractive to Tulsa-area anglers and those who live in north-central Oklahoma."

Bolton said that the Department also has adjusted its stocking strategy this winter and will be incorporating some large (14- to 24-inch) rainbow trout into its stocking schedules for each area and encourages anglers to periodically check the Department's official website (wildlifedepart-ment.com) for an updated stocking schedule.

Complete details on the Wildlife Department's trout areas, along with season dates, regulations, fishing tips and area maps are printed in the 2001 Oklahoma Fishing Guide.

"We certainly encourage anyone who enjoys fishing to give one of our trout areas a try this winter," Bolton said. "It's a fun activity and can really help cure cabin fever."

Anglers are reminded that anyone fishing in a designated trout area must have the required $7.75 trout permit. There are no exemptions, including lifetime license holders and nonresidents.

Proposed Changes To Increase Harvest

Nine public hearings scattered throughout the state from Jan. 8-11 are intended to provide deer hunters and other interested parties with an opportunity to provide their input on a number of recommended deer hunting regulation changes, many of which are focused on increasing antlerless hunting opportunities.

The hearings constitute the public input phase of the process, and are a critical step in helping the Department finalize hunting and fishing regulation change recommendations that are both biologically sound and sociologically acceptable. According to Alan Peoples, wildlife chief for the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation, most of the proposed changes originated from a lengthy process involving a diverse group of stakeholders called the 21st Century Deer Stakeholders Committee.

"The committee was made up of wildlife professionals, hunters, farmers and ranchers and was formed to make recommendations on managing Oklahoma's deer population," Peoples said. "The Oklahoma Wildlife Conservation Commission, the Department's policy-setting body, approved sending most of that slate of changes to public hearings. Once we have the public's input, we'll review our proposals, make changes where appropriate, and present them to the Commission.

"Ultimately, the Wildlife Commission will decide whether or not to implement the changes based on their review of the Department's recommendations, available biological information and feedback from the public. Once approved by the Wildlife Commission, they must then be approved by the House and Senate Rules Committee, then be signed by the Governor. Those changes that are ultimately approved will take effect in the fall of 2001."

Peoples added that harvest data from this year's deer season makes it imperative that the Department look to implement additional population controls. The combined 2000 deer harvest is expected to top 100,000 - a record harvest that is 25 percent more than the previous record of 82,724, established only last year. Despite the record harvest, biologists expect the state's deer herd will continue to increase.

"Hunters are the key to curbing population growth and creating a healthier deer herd," said Peoples. "Many of the recommended changes focus on antlerless deer, which are the key to population management."

Proposed deer hunting regulation changes include:

- reducing from three to two the combined buck bag limit for all seasons. This proposal is an attempt to improve herd health by balancing the harvest between bucks and does.

- creating new deer management zones based on habitat types and social considerations.

- establishing a Jan 1-15 statewide antlerless-only archery season.

- establishing antlerless-only, post-Christmas firearms hunts as needed in management zones determined by the Wildlife Department.

- increasing to two the antlerless deer bag limit in management zones determined by the Wildlife Department.

- creating a statewide Landowner Deer Permit (LDP) for private landowners or lessees with at least 100 acres that will allow much greater flexibility in harvesting antlerless deer on property covered by the LDP.

- making it legal to use an unfilled buck tag to take an antlerless deer on the last day of primitive and/or rifle seasons.

- prohibiting antlerless mule deer harvest statewide during the modern rifle season.

A number of changes are being proposed to the Deer Management Assistance Program (DMAP), including:

- allowing the seven days following the close of the statewide gun season to be either-sex.

- establishing a nine-day, antlerless-only firearms hunt in mid-October on DMAP properties.

- restructuring DMAP fees and participant requirements to encourage people to enroll in the program and facilitate record keeping.

Those who would like to provide input about the recommendations but are unable to attend one of the scheduled hearings can mail their written comments; or, they may log onto the Department's website: wildlifedepartment.com to print off a Deer Season Proposals Questionnaire. Completed questionnaires or written comments must be mailed by Jan. 17, to Attn: Deer Season Proposals, Wildlife Division-ODWC, 1801 N. Lincoln, Oklahoma City, OK 73105.